Sir Stephen Lander (KCB), one of the most respected figures in the UK intelligence community, came to UCL SECReT to share his experiences from a high-level career which has included a six-year stint as head of MI5, the British Security Service (counter-intelligence and security agency), and a post as Chairman of the Serious Organised Crime Agency. Sir Lander noted how the intelligence community’s aims have always reflected the nation’s prevailing concerns and how, in spite of the increasing use of technology, the basics of talented personnel and a sound intelligence gathering network are still very much key factors in a coherent strategy. He also outlined the increasing importance of the various security, law enforcement and intelligence agencies, both at home and abroad, working together to combat the constant threat of terrorist attack.